“The Midcoast” by Adam White

Maine is not one state, but several. It is permanent resident Maine vs. Masshole Summer Tourist Maine. It is Downeast Coastal Maine vs. inland rural Maine. It’s Chamber of Commerce “increase the tax base” developers vs. preservationist “Tree Huggers”. Aboriginal, tribal descendants live uncomfortably with ancestors of 17th century trappers and loggers. “Newcomers” are defined as those who have lived in-state less than 10 generations. True Mainers are classically taciturn, suspicious, and fiercely independent. This libertarian bent means that rules and regulations may be in place for others, not for native Mainers.

Immense wealth stands in stark contrast to hardcore poverty. It’s hard to move from one strata to another. When it happens, eyebrows are inevitably raised.

Adam White touches on all this and more in his debut novel, “The Midcoast”. White weaves a dramatic tale primarily set in a small coastal town, where things aren’t always quite what they seem. Year-round residents know everyone and everything. It’s hard to hide when something is not right. “The Midcoast” is a smart take on several contemporary themes including substance use, college admission inequities, and urban vs non-urban lifestyle choices. Adam White clearly understands his Maine.

Thank you to Hogarth Books and NetGalley for the eARC.